Orbital ATK Expects Rise In Demand For Advanced Rocket Motors

11 October 2017Space News reports that Orbital ATK expects a demand for advanced rocket engines by both industry and the US military. At the Association of the US Army’s Annual Meeting, Orbital ATK Vice President Pat Nolan “said it’s hard to predict defense budgets in the current political climate but the industry does expect an uptick in demand, especially as the United States is challenged by rising military powers and seeks to deter attacks.” This demand would bolster the flagging large rocket motor sector, which Space News reports “has been singled out by the Pentagon for being at risk following years of government budget cuts.” Orbital ATK and Aerojet Rocketdyne are the only domestic “manufacturers of large solid propellant rocket motors.” Nolan explained that Orbital ATK attempts to invest across various types of strategic and tactical motors to maintain production capability, which is made easier by the fact that the “underlying chemical supply base is common to all.” (Image Credit: NASA)More Info (Space News)